How do I prevent bacterial vaginosis?

Bottom lineLower your chances of bacterial vaginosis by avoiding douching (strongly linked to BV), skipping perfumed soaps, washes, and deodorants, washing only the vulva with water, wearing breathable cotton underwear, and wiping front to back; condoms may help, and you should see a clinician for a fishy-smelling discharge or recurrent symptoms, and always if you're pregnant since BV then needs treatment.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) happens when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is upset. It's very common and not fully understood, but you can lower your chances by avoiding the things that disrupt that balance.

Steps that help prevent BV

• Don't douche - it removes protective bacteria and is strongly linked to BV
• Avoid perfumed soaps, bubble baths, and vaginal washes or deodorants
• Wash only the vulva with water or a plain, unperfumed product
• Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid very tight clothing for long periods
• Wipe front to back and avoid getting shower gel inside the vagina

Other factors

• BV is more common with a new or multiple sexual partners, though it isn't classed as a sexually transmitted infection
• Condoms may lower the risk
• Some people get BV around their period or with hormonal changes

If BV keeps coming back

Recurrent BV is common and frustrating. See a clinician - they can confirm it, treat it (usually with antibiotics), and discuss strategies for recurrent cases.

When to see a clinician

See a doctor for a fishy-smelling discharge, change in discharge, or irritation, especially if it recurs - and always if you're pregnant, since BV in pregnancy needs treatment.

See yeast infection vs bacterial vaginosis to tell them apart.

Femora helps you track discharge and odor so you can spot BV early and notice if it keeps returning.